In Islam, وَقَار (waqar), meaning dignity, represents the intrinsic and earned respect that every individual deserves. It encompasses self-respect, moral uprightness, and behavior marked by calmness and decorum. Rooted in Qur’anic principles and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, dignity is a cornerstone of Islamic ethics, shaping personal conduct, societal interactions, and even the treatment of adversaries. It is demonstrated through refined speech, courteous akhlaq (conduct), and steadfastness in the face of trials and tribulations, embodying a deep sense of honour and self-restraint in both personal and social interactions.
We can demarcate dignity in Islam in two categories, “God-given dignity” and “dignity earned”. God-given dignity is inherent to every human being, irrespective of status, achievements, or circumstances, as affirmed in the Qur’an and this forms the foundation of human rights and ethical treatment. Allah says in the Qur’an,
وَلَقَدْ كَرَّمْنَا بَنِي آدَمَ وَحَمَلْنَاهُمْ فِي الْبَرِّ وَالْبَحْرِ وَرَزَقْنَاهُم مِّنَ الطَّيِّبَاتِ وَفَضَّلْنَاهُمْ عَلَىٰ كَثِيرٍ مِّمَّنْ خَلَقْنَا تَفْضِيلًا
“And We have certainly honoured the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:70)
Earned dignity, on the other hand, is acquired through virtuous behavior, such as integrity, courage, and kindness. The Prophets of Allah epitomized this, maintaining unwavering dignity even in the face of severe trials and opposition. Their steadfastness, rooted in Taqwa (God-consciousness), inspired a balance of justice, humility, and respect toward all, even their enemies. Despite enduring immense trials, rejection, abuse, and even torture—some to the extent of sacrificing their lives—they remained unwavering in their commitment to dignity.
In the face of adversity, they upheld supreme self-respect and moral integrity, refusing to stoop to the level of their enemies. Their steadfastness was rooted in Taqwa (God-consciousness), which empowered them to navigate hardship with a profound sense of karama (honour) and waqar (dignity). They understood that Allah was ever-watchful, that ultimate justice belonged to Him, and that His guidance called for resisting the clouding of judgment by injustice or oppression. Instead, they exemplified the principle of upholding justice and dignity toward oneself and others, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Islam’s contribution to human rights is best appreciated when viewed within the broader context of world history. Societies have long been plagued by inequities based on social class, race, gender, and creed, often resulting in the subjugation and enslavement of individuals with darker skin, the oppression of women, and the marginalization of those adhering to different beliefs. Guided by the Qur’anic principles of justice, dignity, and fairness, Islam introduced social structures designed to uphold the inherent dignity of all individuals as a fundamental human right. These structures also created an environment where those who earned honour through their character and actions could thrive.
Bilal ibn Rabah (ra), a former enslaved man of African descent, exemplifies Islam’s rejection of racial superiority. Appointed as the first mu’adhin (caller to prayer), his rise symbolized the emphasis on individual merit and piety over race or background.. The Prophet ﷺ is reported to have said, “There is no superiority of an Arab over a non-Arab, or a non-Arab over an Arab; nor of a white person over a black person, or a black person over a white person, except by piety and good deeds.” [1] This declaration underscores Islam’s commitment to equality and the dignity of all people, regardless of their race or background.
The principles of dignity, justice and equality are also evident in Islam’s groundbreaking reforms for women. At a time when women were denied basic rights, Islam granted them the ability to own, inherit, and manage wealth independently. Allah says in the Qur’an: “For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned.” Islam also abolished the barbaric practice of female infanticide prevalent in pre-Islamic Arabia. The Qur’an condemns this act, stating: “When the female infant buried alive is asked for what sin she was killed.”
Islam upholds equality and justice addressing class inequality and the treatment of marginalized groups. The institution of Zakat redistributes wealth to reduce economic disparity and ensure support for the poor. Islam also safeguards the rights of non-Muslim minorities, granting them religious freedom and protection under Islamic governance, exemplified by treaties like that with the Christian community of Najran.
The Prophet ﷺ warned against harming non-Muslims under a treaty, emphasizing the severe consequences of such actions in the afterlife. Justice was upheld without exception, as demonstrated by the Prophet ﷺ’s declaration that even his closest relatives would face punishment if they violated the law.
These principles collectively reflect Islam’s commitment to creating a just and dignified society for all. All of this demonstrates that “dignity” is a cornerstone of Islamic teachings, embedded in every facet of human life. It transcends individual, communal, and even adversarial relationships, establishing a standard of honour and respect that Muslims are instructed to uphold. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized respect and compassion for all individuals, regardless of age or status, stating: “He is not one of us who does not show mercy to our young and respect to our elders”[2]
This principle applies equally to subordinates and those under one’s authority, with the Prophet ﷺ urging fair and humane treatment. He also strongly discouraged harmful actions like backbiting, slander, and public shaming, warning that such behaviors violate the dignity of others.[3]
The Prophet ﷺ declared the unjust killing of even a single person as graver in the sight of Allah than the destruction of the entire world[4], reflecting the Qur’anic instruction, “do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden, except by right” [5]
Islam safeguards dignity even in death, as demonstrated by the Prophet’s respect for a passing Jewish funeral procession. When questioned about standing, he replied, “Was he not a soul?”[6] Such teachings emphasize the inherent value of every human life, irrespective of faith.
This ethos is particularly evident in the Islamic approach to war, where dignity is preserved for both Muslims and their enemies. During times of war, these principles are not suspended but rather reinforced. A Muslim soldier is expected to, uphold integrity and justice, respect the rights of prisoners of war and not to humiliate and torture.
Islam prohibits treachery, even against an adversary and enemy. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Fulfill your trusts to those who entrust you, and do not betray the one who betrays you.”[7]
Prisoners of war are to be treated with dignity. The Qur’an instructs Muslims to provide them with food and humane treatment, “And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive...”[8]
The Prophet ﷺ strictly forbade mutilation of the dead, even during war, saying, “Do not mutilate the dead, even if it is a rabid dog.”[9]
Islam categorically forbids harming women, children, the elderly or monks. Abu Bakr (ra), the first Caliph, instructed his army, “Do not kill women, children, or the elderly. Do not cut down fruit-bearing trees, destroy crops, or harm animals unnecessarily.”
The Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ leadership during battles exemplifies the preservation of dignity. After the conquest of Makkah, when his enemies were at his mercy, he declared, "Go, for you are free." This act of forgiveness and magnanimity is a powerful testament to Islam’s commitment to preserving dignity, even for those who once sought harm.
Dignity is a cornerstone of Islamic teachings, transcending personal, social, and even adversarial relationships. Through justice and respect for human rights, Islam provides a framework for fostering dignity and honour. These principles serve as a timeless guide, urging humanity to rise above cruelty and oppression to build a world rooted in mutual respect and dignity for all.
[1] Musnad Ahmad
[2] Sunan Abi Dawood 4943
[3] Sahih Muslim 2589
[4] Sunan an-Nasa’i 3987
[5] Qur’an 17:33
[6] Sahih al-Bukhari 1312
[7] Sunan Abu Dawood 3535
[8] Qur’an 76:8
[9] Sunan Abi Dawood 2669
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